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The Heart of Religion

By Phiroz Mehta

About this book

FormatHardback

Pages444

PublisherCompton Russell

Published1976

ISBN0-85955-029-X

FormatPaperback

Pages446

PublisherElement Books

Published1987

ISBN1-85230-014-0

What does it mean to understand and practise the religious life? In a work which
combines scholarship with deep spiritual insight Phiroz Mehta draws on more than
fifty years of study and practice to interpret the meaning of spiritual evolution.

He has distilled the essence of the world’s great religious traditions, from
the message of the Vedas and Upanishads to the teachings of the Buddha, Jesus and
Zarathushtra, to reveal the path which can lead us towards a life free from fear,
greed and hatred, a life in which our actions are pure, wise and compassionate.
This is the way of Transcendence which is centred in the living heart of religion.

Reviews

It is the most beautiful, true and loving, helpful, awakening and growing book that
we have met in a long, long time. All the insights of the great traditions are there
… in a new yet eternal unity which at the same time is very much a tract
for the times.

The Reverend David Shapland

I would venture to say that it is probably impossible for anyone, whatever their
background or learning, to come away from this book without being greatly enriched
– and stimulated – by it.

From the review by Malcolm Ashworth in Yoga and Health

The best book I have ever read with real concepts and visions and views with a holistic approach to all religions getting the best of Buddha, Christ and all in one book. A possible life changing book to read. A very special book by a Cambridge don who really knows the best of East and West.

From the review by Professor Harvey Crichton on Amazon

Extracts

The meditator, having reviewed the dangers of hate in any form, having put aside
pleasure, lust and other impediments, and having calmed the mind, develops loving
kindness by strongly wishing, first for himself, ease, well-being and happiness,
and freedom from enmity, injury and disturbance. When the mind glows with friendliness
for himself, he directs this mettā to others: the teacher and those
dear to himself; later on, with growing proficiency, to all others, including enemies;
and finally, to the whole world.

From page 377 of The Heart of Religion

In this constant beatitude in which “I am the I which I has given up I”,
where mind is unshakably poised and free, ever still and silent, the senses are
not only the cords of communion but also the channels of transmutative power. So
when the Living Revelation looks at you at any moment he sees you as you actually
are, and in that same instant, through his eye, the “third eye”, Transcendence
sees itself in you as MAN. In this divine moment of truth, Grace touches you if
your heart be quietly aflame with love and wholly open to the compassionate Holy
One. That touch heals you. And in that healing is the creative renewal of all the
world.